JACL Continues Opposition to Executive Orders on Immigration

The Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) continues to oppose executive orders that are based on racism and xenophobia. Yesterday, the White House issued an “Executive Order Protecting The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States.” Like other executive orders issued earlier this year, this order uses security as a rationale to discriminate against the Muslim community. Although this order offers more specific details around who should or should not be banned from entering the country, ultimately it continues a pattern of excessive tactics being utilized by this administration against refugees and immigrants seeking a better life.

Earlier this year, the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit responded to a similar executive order by stating that “The Government has pointed to no evidence that any alien from any of the countries named in the Order has perpetrated a terrorist attack in the United States.” A recent document prepared by the Department of Homeland Security also determined that “country of citizenship is unlikely to be a reliable indicator of potential terrorist activity.” In light of these decisions, it is appalling that the administration continues pursuing these divisive tactics.

JACL continues to support the resettlement of refugees and the rights of immigrants, and stands with those who believe the United States is a country of opportunity for anyone seeking a better life. We must stand against fear-based policies and stay true to the values that make our country truly great.